The number of internet subscribers in Bangladesh has been on a steady decline since April 2023, according to the latest data from the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC). This reduction in internet usage mirrors a similar trend in mobile phone subscribers, with both figures dropping consistently from April to October.
As of October 2023, the total number of internet subscribers in the country had fallen to 137.18 million, down from 142.17 million in June 2023. The decline became particularly noticeable in July, coinciding with the student-led protests and public unrest that were triggered by dissatisfaction with the previous government. The number of internet subscribers dipped to 141.05 million that month and continued to decrease in the following months, with a reduction to 140.5 million in August and 138.62 million in September.
Despite this overall drop in internet subscriptions, there is a notable exception: broadband internet usage, which is seeing an increase. According to BTRC data, broadband internet (including both ISP and PSTN services) subscribers rose to 137.4 million in September and October, reflecting a growing demand for fixed-line internet services.
While broadband internet usage is growing, mobile internet subscribers have been steadily decreasing since June. The number of mobile internet subscribers stood at 129.17 million in June, but by October, that number had fallen to 123.44 million, marking a significant decline in mobile data usage across the country.
Experts suggest that a combination of economic factors is contributing to this trend. The rising cost of living, driven by inflation, has led to a decrease in purchasing power among consumers, making internet and mobile data services less affordable for many. This has likely led to people cutting back on non-essential spending, including mobile and internet subscriptions.
Sumon Ahmed Sabir, an internet expert, explained to Daily Industry that the decline in internet subscribers could largely be attributed to economic pressures. “People’s purchasing power is decreasing due to various factors, including inflation, which makes it harder for them to afford internet services. This could be a major reason why fewer people are subscribing to mobile internet services,” Sabir said.
In addition, the overall uncertainty in the country’s economy, alongside rising living costs, has led many to reassess their discretionary spending. As a result, mobile internet subscriptions - which are generally seen as less essential compared to broadband internet - may be among
